While the use of post-surgical radiation in prostate cancer treatment is on the decline evidence suggests this important procedure delivers benefits that should not be overlooked. A new study published in the journal European Urology indicates that less than 10 percent of American patients at risk for recurrence are receiving postoperative radiotherapy within six months of surgery. This is despite the fact that about 30 percent of radical prostatectomy patients develop biochemical recurrence after surgery. For those who are diagnosed with more aggressive cancers, the rate of recurrence can climb to 60 to 70 percent.
Use of immediate, or near immediate, radiotherapy has long been the focus of debate among urologists and oncologists. Two schools of thought exist in relation to the use of this therapy immediately post-surgery and the likelihood of the development of side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Urologists have long held that holding off and taking a wait-and-see approach is the way to go, but oncologists have counseled for more swift application of radiation to ensure cancer’s eradication while lowering recurrence risks.
While these two schools of thought have existed little evidence was available to support arguments on either side of the debate. Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, however, have stepped forward with more quantitative proof that supports immediate care. Through two separate studies, researchers found that there is no significant reduction of side effect incidence when the wait-and-see approach is taken.
Radiotherapy following radical prostatectomy might seem like an unnecessary precaution to some, but the reality is this treatment can be vital for those at greater risk for recurrence. Men who undergo radical prostatectomy should be mindful of the benefits of this potential secondary treatment and should carefully consult with their doctors for the best treatment options in their particular case. While radiotherapy can present risks, recurrences may as well, and waiting may deliver no real benefit in avoidance of potential side effects.
Use of immediate, or near immediate, radiotherapy has long been the focus of debate among urologists and oncologists. Two schools of thought exist in relation to the use of this therapy immediately post-surgery and the likelihood of the development of side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Urologists have long held that holding off and taking a wait-and-see approach is the way to go, but oncologists have counseled for more swift application of radiation to ensure cancer’s eradication while lowering recurrence risks.
While these two schools of thought have existed little evidence was available to support arguments on either side of the debate. Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, however, have stepped forward with more quantitative proof that supports immediate care. Through two separate studies, researchers found that there is no significant reduction of side effect incidence when the wait-and-see approach is taken.
Radiotherapy following radical prostatectomy might seem like an unnecessary precaution to some, but the reality is this treatment can be vital for those at greater risk for recurrence. Men who undergo radical prostatectomy should be mindful of the benefits of this potential secondary treatment and should carefully consult with their doctors for the best treatment options in their particular case. While radiotherapy can present risks, recurrences may as well, and waiting may deliver no real benefit in avoidance of potential side effects.
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